Isuzu launches new D-Max, mu-X variants

MANILA, Philippines - Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) introduced new three-liter variants of its existing D-Max and mu-X models in response to customers’ demands for bigger engines and more power-driven vehicles.

“While our current D-Max and mu-X line-up is very much appreciated by the market, there are those who wish to have more power. Thus, we are giving our customers the freedom to choose – between our current 2.5-liter engine and the new 3.0 VGS Turbo variant,” IPC president Hajime Koso said during the launch yesterday.

The Isuzu mu-X 3.0 VGS Turbo has a price tag of P1.4 million for the 4x2 LS-A A/T variant and P1.7 million for the 4x4 LS-A A/T model. Meanwhile, the D-Max 3.0 VGS Turbo ranges from P1.1 million to P1.4 million depending on the model.

Japan-based Isu-
zu Motors Ltd. board director and managing executive officer Kazuhiko Ito said it is only in the Philippines that the LCV (light commercial vehicle) market is growing among all countries in the Asean region.

“This strengthened our intention to further develop our products for the Philippine market. We introduced these new models with the belief that these products will better serve the needs of our valued Filipino customers,” he added.

Combined total sales volume of the D-Max and mu-X in 2014 exceeded 320,000 units, of which 150,000 units were sold in Thailand and 170,000 units were exported to more than a hundred countries worldwide.

IPC also targets to increase its market share to 20 percent from the current 15 percent. Isuzu is in the number four spot behind Toyota, Ford and Nissan.

The D-Max and mu-X models are equipped with one of Isuzu’s most powerful engine, the new 4JJ1-TC (HI) three-liter diesel engine. Fitted with Common Rail Direct Injection and an intercooled Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger, the engine responds even at low speed and eliminates “turbo lag” or the delay in the distribution of power.

Evaluated to produce 163 horsepower at 3,200 rpm and a high 380 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,200 rpm, the engine also provides plenty of power, translating to less gear changes, effortless hill climbing and easier off-road driving.

Meanwhile, the new 3.0 VGS Turbo variants boast of more premium features like the new LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) that acts as an avoidance safety feature and increase the vehicle’s conspicuity.

The Isuzu D-Max LS 3.0 VGS Turbo has a new tailgate mounted reverse camera, which automatically activates when the driver engages the transmission to reverse. With this, the rearview will be projected on the seven-inch touchscreen entertainment system to help assist in reverse parking and alleviating blind spots.